Lucky Baskhar (2024), engaging and nostalgic

The Harshad Mehta scam altered Indian banking and stock markets permanently, and over the years, it has become a rich source of material for filmmakers. Lucky Baskhar, starring Dulquer Salmaan, is the latest film to use this backdrop, offering a fresh perspective through the eyes of an ordinary bank officer. While the story follows a predictable arc of ambition leading a middle-class individual into illegal activities, the brilliant screenplay keeps you engrossed. Mangoidiots is happy to give this film a Ripe rating. It is available for streaming on Netflix.

Director Venky Atluri deserves credit for his excellent casting. In his earlier film, Vaathi (2023), I felt the casting could have been stronger, and it is satisfying to see this aspect working well here. The lead pair, Dulquer Salmaan and Meenakshi Chaudhary are perfectly suited to their roles as a middle-class couple struggling to make ends meet in 1980s Bombay. Despite his limited role, YouTube star Master Rithvik shines, and it was a pleasant surprise to see Ramki in an important role after decades. Rajkumar Kasireddy, as the hero’s friend, delivers a commendable performance as well.

The story revolves around Bhaskar, a young bank clerk in 1989 Bombay, whose financial struggles drive him to “borrow” money from his bank’s vault. What begins as a temporary fix spirals into a dangerous cycle, dragging him into larger financial crimes. While financial fraud may appear harmless at first, the film effectively highlights its devastating consequences. The narrative focuses on Bhaskar’s moral journey—whether and when he realises the gravity of his actions.

The film’s non-linear narrative, starting with a CBI enquiry in 1992 and flashing back to the events that led there, keeps the audience engaged. The art direction and cinematography by Nimish Ravi are standout elements, capturing the essence of 1990s Bombay with its cars, roads, and office buildings from that period. The music by G.V. Prakash Kumar complements the narrative, adding the required energy.

Handling this genre is no small feat, as today’s audience is sharp and quick to spot plot holes or inconsistencies. The director and crew have done a commendable job in tying up loose ends. Bhaskar’s pre-wealth struggles are portrayed convincingly, particularly the scene where their child is denied a piece of cake at his in-laws’ house—a moment that encapsulates the couple’s frustration and helplessness. The climax, while simple, feels satisfying.

Overall, Lucky Baskhar may not break new ground but delivers an engaging and well-made film that you shouldn’t miss.